Earthquake preparation: The Great Idaho Shakeout Ada City-County Emergency Management The Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Education, is conducting the Great Idaho Shakeout. The goal of the Shakeout is to familiarize everyone on the “Drop, Cover and Hold” method for personal safety during an earthquake and to practice the technique. During the drill, participants will immediately drop to the floor, get under a desk or table and place one arm over their head while holding onto the furniture with the other. These are the recommended steps to take if you are inside a building during an earthquake. Following these simple steps will reduce your chances of injury during the event. Why drop, cover and hold? Studies over the last several decades have shown that people are far more likely to be injured from unsecured objects falling ( i.e. TV, lamp, glass, bookcase etc.) than to die in a building collapse. In earthquake-prone areas of the U.S. and many other countries, strict building codes have greatly reduced the potential of collapse. The exception to this rule is if you are in a structure that has not been engineered to withstand seismic activity. Old buildings, especially those made of unreinforced masonry or adobe (mud-brick), may not be safe. In this case, it is best to get outside and away from the building as safely as you can. How to participate Before the shakeout drill Educational materials about earthquakes and the Shakeout Drill procedures are available online at: Please practice the procedures before the drill. During the shakeout drill
Drop, cover and hold alternatives Windows, facades or other architectural details often are the first part of a building to collapse. If you are outside, move to a clear area if you can safely do so and drop to the ground. Avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings and vehicles. Published 10-7-2011 |